BOOST YOUR WINE IQ
WASH, WOOF, REPEAT EXPLORE AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANTS
VOICES OF THE VALLEY
Mikalah Gordon
“So Funny It Hurts”
ON THE COVER: Mikalah Gordon. Photo by Louiie Victa. Hair and Makeup by Bo Brinkman. Location: Sticky Paws Studios
Contents
Welcome to the August issue of The Town, the only magazine exclusively distributed across Summerlin, the Southwest and the Westside of Las Vegas.
It’s hard not to anticipate fall at this moment during what everyone refers to as the dog days of summer. If you are like me, I am already planning how to capitalize on being back outside, thinking about walks, dinners, entertaining and enjoying the pool as this record-breaking summer ends.
However, August holds some fantastic moments; hopefully, this issue will guide you. The Aviators are in full swing at the Las Vegas Ballpark if you love baseball. The Beverly Theater, a new cultural landmark in Las Vegas, is hosting “Mob Month,” which will bring some of the best gangster films ever made back to the big screen—and they aren’t all Vegas-themed even though I am bookmarking Bugsy, Casino and Godfather II on my must-see list.
This month also means that football will soon return, and it is time to break out the Raiders gear. Featured in this issue, Annemarie Jones, celebrated as one of the most fashionable and philanthropic women in town, shares her love for silver and black and even has a little secret about who makes her custom items.
If you have ever been lucky enough to score a dinner reservation at Delilah, the hottest seat in town, you have most likely encountered General Manager Adam Norotsky. I have often joked with him that he must wake up in a tuxedo, as I never see him looking like anything less than a million dollars. In this issue, we delve into his fashion essentials.
“Voices of the Valley” highlights our favorite podcasts. We go behind the mic with the hosts of “The Perez Hilton Podcast,” Mikalah Gordon’s “So Funny It Hurts,” “Vegas Revealed,” “Food and Loathing” and “City Cast.” I have gotten to know all of these talented broadcasters personally and am continually impressed with what they do to advance the medium.
If you are anxious to hear me on the airwaves, tune in to the July 30 episode of “City Cast,” where I give my top picks for August—many of which are included in these pages.
On the food and beverage front, Scotch 80 Prime’s Social Hour should be on everyone’s list. And if you are a wine lover, our expert Marisa Finetti shares her infinite knowledge on how to raise your wine IQ while pointing out some of the best places around town to drink wine.
As always, I hope to see you around The Town.
Melinda Sheckells Editor @melindasheckells
Publisher Bill Richman
Vice President of Operations
Stacey Richman
Editor Melinda Sheckells
Contributing Editor Gabby Leighton
Creative Director
Lalo Reyes
Contributing Writers
Becca Blond, Alison Bailin Batz, Marisa Finetti, Ivy Griffith, Jason R. Latham, Afi Maita, Al Mancini, Jim Prueter, Jen Smith, Samantha Gemini Stevens, Colleen Vosicky
Contributing Photographers
Denise Truscello, Louiie Victa
Advertising Coordinator Stacey Richman stacey@richmanmediagroup.com
Contact Us
Editorial melinda@richmanmediagroup.com
Advertising bill@richmanmediagroup.com 480.229.3122
Online www.thetownofsummerlin.com
The Town is not affiliated with nor endorsed by the Summerlin® development or THHC.
Pulse
UP CLOSE / BEAT / HIS STYLE / HER STYLE
BY JEN
INFLUENTIAL REINVENTION
Las Vegas entertainment expert Mike Snedegar makes the leap to entrepreneur
Mike Snedegar has spent over 20 years working with the biggest names in entertainment and is always ready for more.
After moving west from Lexington, Kentucky, in 2001, Snedegar spent 17 years with Tao Group. Snedegar worked his way up from owner Jason Strauss’ assistant to focusing on
celebrity relations and events, public relations and influencer marketing.
He found a unique niche in fostering relationships with talent to enhance both the Tao brand and other top partners, orchestrating headline-making moments through events, appearances and
SMITH / PHOTOS BY DENISE TRUSCELLO
residencies. Snedegar also rode the wave of the social media influencer from SnapChat to Youtube and from TikTok to Instagram, continually tapping into those who are viral and trending.
The last two decades have provided numerous celebrity collaborations. For instance, the Kardashians are a favorite family for Snedegar. He has worked with the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, DJ Khaled, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, U2, Madonna and other huge names, along with brands like T-Mobile, Beats By Dre and Xbox. Through these relationships and his organization and execution of major events, Snedegar continues to rise in the ranks as a notable figure and friend to an A-list clientele.
The Business of Creativity
In late 2023, Snedegar opened a new door: Mike Snedegar Consulting, which sits at the intersection of entertainment and hospitality. His expertise hones in on brand engagement, created through ultra-memorable experiences and impactful relationships.
“I emphasize the connection between talent and brand by employing organic product seeding, branding, talent outreach and influencer marketing strategies, which lead to successful partnerships and a more significant market presence,” Snedegar explains.
Branching out into business for oneself is not always an easy road. But for Snedegar, it was the right place and the right time.
“It’s something that started to happen naturally. People came to me needing advice, needing help on projects and it just grew from there,” he explains.
He finds the independence rewarding, allowing him to travel more and work from anywhere. He credits amazing people in his life for pushing him to greatness and cites that there is no “right time” to pursue dreams.
“There never is going to be the perfect time. But I just thought, if not now, when?” he says.
Beyond business, Snedegar is a passionate photographer. After visiting Haiti following its earthquake in 2010, he took a few snapshots that found their way onto MSNBC. His notable local collection, titled the Vegas Reflection Series, is a group of snapshots showing famous neon signage from well-placed puddles.
“I was intrigued by reflection photos and I did a series, mainly Downtown, of classic Vegas signs after the rain. It seemed to resonate with people,” he says.
Notable Vegas-based photographers such as Denise Truscello and Al Powers are of great help to Snedegar, who is approaching 15 years of practicing photography as a hobby. His cameras, both new and old, accompany him on his travels.
“I have a Canon G7x3, which I take on all my trips and I just recently got a Sony Alpha 6700,” he says. “I love Polaroids and the Fujifilm Instax cameras.”
He finds inspiration in 6 a.m. runs, discovering new cities, a book that grabs him, a dinner that is “full of laughs that exceeds three hours” and amazing pictures. To Snedegar, “consistency equals longevity,” which is a credo that future entrepreneurs can apply to their own endeavors.
A Man of the World
Naturally, Snedegar’s adventures stretch worldwide. As an avid traveler, Snedegar finds that adventure provides a sense of self-discovery. Trips to London and Peru are on the horizon for 2024. And cities like Tokyo, Paris, Barcelona, Rome and Venice are on his radar. He also enjoys overseas metropolises like Hong Kong and Dubai.
“Hong Kong was like New York City,” he says. “The energy is crazy and they both feel futuristic.”
When he’s not out exploring, Snedegar relaxes by working out, spending time in the sauna, reading and finding other adventures. Some of his favorite haunts on the westside include Harlo, La Neta and Naxos, along with Strip-central spots like Piero’s, Delilah at Wynn, Chyna Club at Fontainebleau, Kassi Beach House at Virgin Hotels, and Tao at The Venetian Resort.
No matter where he goes, Snedegar will always hold ties to Vegas through philanthropic advocacy. He supports the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth, a charitable organization that helps displaced teenagers and young adults through their educational journeys. In addition to bolstering social media and marketing concepts, he recently served as a co-chair of NPHY homecoming auction gala. He advocates for The Animal Foundation, a nonprofit shelter that saves animal lives across Las Vegas, as well.
“[Vegas] continues to evolve and push the evolution of entertainment,” he says. “It truly is the entertainment capital. I try never to take for granted that I can just have dinner and drive 20 minutes to see Adele, Bruno Mars or Lady Gaga on a given night.”
FROM NASHVILLE TO VEGAS
Country artist Cali Tucker adds a whole new vibe to the local music scene
BY JEN SMITH
While country singer Cali Tucker’s next moves might be written in the stars, one thing’s for certain—she’s going to have a great time.
Tucker was born into music success, with her mother La Costa Tucker and aunt Tanya Tucker dominating the country scene in decades past. While she branched out into a sound that showcases her multigenre talents, she knew that country music was her destiny, too.
“To the core of me is country, there’s no doubt,” she says. “I bring a different style of it that resonates with a wide audience.”
After a stint on the sixth season of The Voice in 2014, Tucker wanted to keep leveling up her career after the show’s conclusion. Her battle partner from The Voice, Ryan Whyte Maloney, lived in Vegas at the time, and he prompted her to move out of her hometown of Nashville to pursue her music career.
Since then, Tucker’s life has been a whirlwind of gigs. Performances across the city have cemented her place as sought-after talent. She regularly appears at places like Basilico and Red Rock Resort on the westside between jobs at Strip speakeasies and supper clubs like Delilah at Wynn.
“I just want to perform,” she says. “It’s not a passion; it’s an obsession.”
Tucker’s new single and music video “Country Couture” was shot by the westside’s own Quantum Arc Media, produced by G’harah “PK” Degeddingseze and co-written by Tricia Battani. All 32 costumes in the video are tokens of the past, mixing her mother’s looks with outfits from Tucker’s own pageant days and old prom dresses. She sees herself as “Shania Twain meets ’90s Garth Brooks with a twist of constant comedy,” and her vision for the music video involved creating a “fabulous fever dream of color.”
“I wanted to bring a little bit of joy and color to country music,” she says.
Fans can watch for new songs and music video releases from Tucker in the very near future, including a collaboration with musical director Marc Atkinson, who also works as Wayne Newton’s MD. Making more music and albums, going on tour and “perform for everybody” are all soon-to-be in her winning hand.
“At the end of the day, I hope that people really resonate with the music, and with me, and follow along on the journey,” she says.
SHANE ON THE SCENE
Get to know VGK Color Commentator Shane Hnidy
Moving from Canada to Las Vegas for hockey is now a career-boosting move for many and Golden Knights on-air talent Shane Hnidy is no exception.
As a former professional hockey defenseman, Hnidy won the Stanley Cup in 2011 with the Boston Bruins before returning to his home province in Winnipeg, Canada. He started his broadcast work there, after the Jets came back to Winnipeg, and spent six years developing his career and staying connected with the industry. When he heard Vegas was getting a team he knew it would be big and he wanted to be part of it.
“Bringing my sport to a new market—the entertainment capital—I had a gut feeling that it was going to work but not in my wildest dreams did I guess it would be this successful,” he says. “What has happened in this city with the sport of hockey has been such a tremendous experience, not only for me but for my family.”
Now, Hnidy spends his time in an “all-encompassing” role, attending speaking engagements and hosting events alongside “play-by-play guy” Dave Goucher when he’s not covering games.
As a Summerlin local, Hnidy works in the neighborhood at City National, has watched three kids graduate high school and recently celebrated his 25th wedding anniversary. He loves the variety of dining and entertainment as well as the easy access to nature and golf courses. Hnidy can be seen about town in custom suits from Stitched and VGK gear as part of his signature look that he continues to cultivate season after season.
“I never thought I’d own this much gold stuff in my life, especially shoes,” he laughs.
But even better than the clothes are the great successes that Hnidy is able to experience, alongside the team, without the stresses he underwent when he played.
“I get to ride the highs of this team and what they’ve been able to accomplish,” he says. “The greatest job was playing and the second greatest job is staying in the game.”
BY JEN SMITH
ALL ABOUT ADAM
Delilah General Manager Adam Norotsky practically wakes up in a tux
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Looking good has always been part of Adam Norotsky’s job.
“I have been working in nightclubs and restaurants since I was 16 years old, so being around fashion came with the territory,” the New York City native says. “There is something therapeutic about the simple act of getting dressed. It’s filled with anticipation and sets the tone for the workday ahead.”
Norotsky, the gatekeeper of Vegas’ most exclusive restaurant, Delilah, describes his style as “avant-garde” and isn’t afraid to try new things.
“I have to maintain an elite sense of style and wardrobe at the restaurant,” he says, “but [I] like to balance that when I’m outside work with some more experimental designers [and] emerging labels.”
Inspiration comes in many forms. Norotsky gravitates toward designers such as Paul Smith, YSL and Emily Bode. Chrome Hearts is a 25-year favorite and a “guilty pleasure.” Bow ties are a signature accessory. He credits a notable garment to celebrity fashion designer Jeff Hamilton, who frequents Delilah and is “simply one of the coolest guys around.”
“He once gave me a jacket, and just knowing that he thought I was cool enough to wear one of his designs was compliment enough for me,” Norotsky says. “We have the most stylish clientele on the planet.”
Describe your perfect day-to-night outfit. A Delilah “Nothing To See Here” hoodie.
What accessory completes any look? A vintage wristwatch. Everyone wears the same two or three brands and it’s super redundant. I love seeing unique and timeless wristwatches.
Who is your style inspiration? Jeff Goldblum. He is easily the best-dressed 71-year-old on the planet and does it effortlessly.
RAIDING HER CLOSET
Annemarie Jones demonstrates her love for black and silver from head to toe
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY BO BRINKMAN
Wife, mom and philanthropist Annemarie Jones beams with hometown pride. The self-described community helper shares her big heart with several of the most important organizations serving the Las Vegas community. Jones sits on the foundation board for Opportunity Village and is a member of Nevada Women’s Philanthropy. She contributes time to and helps fundraise for many others.
“I love trying to help as many people as possible,” Jones says. Like other locals, she enjoys watching Vegas’ professional football franchise bring the community together, since the Raiders relocated to the valley in 2020. Her esteem for the team goes beyond the game.
“I love seeing all the happy people in one place with a common love,” she says.
Jones especially enjoys the fashion angle. To create the best Raidersthemed outfit, she goes with custom black and silver gear embellished by graffiti artist Black57 or anything with sparkles or spikes. Jones believes the team has “the best colors to work with in the NFL.”
Football games start again in September and Jones looks forward to the season.
“I love how it brings our family and friends closer together,” she says. “We are always hunting for black and silver to wear to games, parties and each other’s houses.”
What outfit advice would you give to a fan getting ready to attend a game at Allegiant Stadium? Pick something that will bring fun and positive energy. Even if you are not a Raiders fan, we still appreciate your creativity.
Where’s the best place to shop for Raiders gear? The Raiders store in Downtown Summerlin—season ticket holders get discounts.
What’s your dream merch? A sequined cape. I feel that it would be so cute and stylish and could double as a wearable “Go Raiders” flag during games.
The evolution of podcasting, from a minor media disruption to a mainstream news and entertainment format, has given rise to a new wave of storytelling beyond the Strip. Veteran Vegas journalists and personalities—those who know the town and its culture better than anyone—are the O.G. influencers and audiences are embracing them as the de facto gatekeepers in a destination that’s so much more fun when you’re an “insider.”
These are the podcasters of Vegas.
BY JASON R. LATHAM
Perez Hilton
The Perez Hilton Podcast with Chris Booker
Las Vegas has been a hub for celebrity gossip since Ben Siegel opened The Flamingo in 1946. From weddings to divorces to arrests and public flubs that have become revolving memes, the rumor mill churns fast and that’s why we have Perez Hilton.
One of the OG new media gossip columnists, Hilton settled in Southern Nevada in 2023 after spending years in Los Angeles. Putting miles between himself and Hollywood hasn’t diluted his clout or given him less fodder for his show, The Perez Hilton Podcast, with co-host Chris Booker.
“The celebrities and the topics are constantly evolving, so no two shows are alike,” Hilton says. “My co-host and I will disagree on topics, but it’s real, making the show compelling.”
The gossip grind, in addition to keeping show content fresh, has made Hilton adaptable. He got into the game before social media became an everyday tool, and two decades later, he learned that even if the audience remains loyal, you still must pivot to meet them where they are.
“I’m posting a lot of videos now, which is exhausting,” he laughs. “But I think I’m malleable and willing to adapt and change with the times, and some people aren’t.
“People who do the same thing over and over without tweaking or changing, they fade away. Not a lot of people have what it takes to sustain.”
Keeping pace means putting out two episodes of The Perez Hilton Podcast every week—one “free” episode and one exclusively for Patreon supporters. Even before relocating to Las Vegas, he was an author, actor and host on top of his daily reporting duties, and that continues. Next month, Hilton will headline “Perez’s Labor Day Pool Party” at M Resort’s Daydream pool.
“I learned from the best, Joan Rivers, that you need to say ‘Yes’ to everything and diversify in order to have a long career,” Hilton says. “Some people might say things like, ‘Oh, that’s lame, or that’s not good for my brand,’ but Joan would say, ‘I’ll show up at the opening of an envelope if you pay me my rate.’”
While Hilton admits that he’s “perpetually drained” after a day’s work, living in Las Vegas takes some of the edge off—a benefit when you have a home office and are raising kids simultaneously.
“That’s one of the reasons I moved to Vegas,” he says. “It’s easier to live here and the quality of life is better.
“There’s more to do, which I love and when playing with my kids, I remove myself from this setting so I’m present and not constantly checking my phone.”
Al Mancini and Samantha Gemini Stevens
Food and Loathing
“A podcast for everything that’s fun to put in your mouth” is a perfect Vegas description for Food and Loathing, the gastro-centric show hosted by longtime Las Vegas ReviewJournal food writer and Neon Feast creator Al Mancini. Together with co-host Samantha Gemini Stevens and supported by producer Rich Johnson, Mancini’s Food and Loathing has become the definitive source for restaurant news, openings and closings, chef conversations and everything else that whets the appetite of Las Vegas locals and visitors.
“I wanted a place where I could just be grounded and have conversations with my friends about food because that’s all we talk about,” Mancini says. “We set the format pretty early and every show starts with, ‘Hey, why don’t we talk about what we’ve been eating.’”
A fixture of Las Vegas-based journalism since 2001, Mancini has outlasted many of the restaurants he has reviewed. Since Food and Loathing launched in 2021, Mancini and company have compiled a library of more than 160 episodes and nearly 200 interviews—a “who’s who” of food and beverage, including chefs James Trees (Esther’s Kitchen) and Thomas Keller (Bouchon), among others.
HOT PLATES. HOT TAKES
The show is “gonzo,” Mancini jests, another reference to Hunter S. Thompson’s time in Vegas, but also a word that reflects Mancini’s approach—what it’s like on the inside, immersed in the city’s dining scene and bouncing from one place to another for every meal.
“We don’t have to record it all in one place,” Mancini says. Our debut episode was recorded on Resorts World’s opening night, and we had it on the air at 3 a.m.
“It has an organic feel because it’s just us doing what we love to do.”
Bringing Stevens into the mix—she joined the show in 2023—was a way to diversify the weekly conversation. A Las Vegan since 2005, Stevens describes her pre-journalism career as “very 9 to 5, very corporate” and says the
transition to storytelling, which began around the pandemic, has made her “the happiest I’ve probably ever been.”
In addition to her co-hosting duties, she oversees Neon Feast’s “Neon News.”
“I went in fully thinking that I was coming from the customer side of things,” she adds. “We [work] really well together, we bounce things [off each other] really well and I think we know how to lead each other.
“He’s got so much knowledge and I’m still kind of a fan girl, so I can ask more questions from the listener’s perspective.”
WESTSIDE FOODIE FORAYS
Their collective time in Las Vegas has given both hosts an encyclopedic perspective on the names, trends and neighborhoods—a.k.a. “food pockets”—where locals love to eat.
“I feel like that’s how Las Vegas is put together,” Stevens explains. “There are pockets of things and places that aren’t well known just because they’re a tiny bit out of the way.”
Both agree that the westside, from Chinatown to Summerlin, has seen the most evolution in the 15 years since Las Vegas hit rock bottom during the Great Recession.
Hearing the co-hosts discuss how the neighborhoods have changed and where they’re now seeing more diversity in dining is like an episode of Food and Loathing
“I think 2009 is a perfect starting point when looking at [off-Strip dining],” Mancini says. “You’re looking at a time when the Strip was established and the westside was just in its infancy; we had a handful of restaurants— Vintner Grill, Sen of Japan—and suddenly, all the people who came here to run a celebrity restaurant on the Strip decided to stay.
“What’s happened on the westside is truly amazing. For one thing, Tivoli Village and Boca Park, which forever seemed cursed, have emerged as solid incubators of quality cuisine. That’s a big deal.”
Adds Stevens: “Where I live, near Boca Park, there are places that hit everyone’s notes and are perfect for meeting up for lunch. More and more, I’m also spending more time at Durango because that’s new.”
“The entire southwest, notably that stretch of Rainbow beneath the 215, has started to blow up,” Mancini says. “There’s a lot of money out in the suburbs and many other industries besides gaming, and those people want quality restaurants and are willing to pay for it.”
PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Mikalah Gordon
So Funny It Hurts
Like The Killers, Bryce Harper and the Golden Knights, Mikalah Gordon belongs to Las Vegas. That’s not to say we own her, but locals have rallied behind the born-and-raised entertainer since she broke through as the youngest Top 12 finalist in the fourth season of American Idol
Hollywood beckoned, as it does, and for nearly 20 years, Gordon has been padding her resume with credits across the entertainment spectrum. She sings and acts, and she’s even found success in stand-up comedy, performing at L.A.’s famed Comedy Store and Laugh Factory.
Now, back in Las Vegas, Gordon’s talents are on full display with two vocal residencies, a co-hosting gig on 98.5 KLUC’s morning show, and her original podcast, So Funny It Hurts. The format pairs Gordon with another comic—Luenell, Josh Nasar and Jamie Kennedy are among the notable guests—for a frank conversation that explores “the trauma that makes them funny.”
“I’m very transparent when it comes to my trauma, so I’ve treated it as my therapy,” says Gordon, who has discussed everything from her complicated relationship with her father to her mother’s mental health struggles.
“You can’t get in trouble if you’re being a kind, honest version of yourself,” Gordon says. “It’s nice to see comedians in such a vulnerable way and I love being able to do it in Vegas.
“Comedians want to be here; this is where stand-up residencies are happening, so it’s a chance to see them on the podcast and get to know them before seeing them in the club.”
Gordon is considering returning to the stand-up stage herself, though finding the time may take a lot of work. Nearly 50 episodes of So Funny It Hurts are available via the entertainer’s YouTube channel and all major podcast platforms and there are more to come despite a schedule constantly pulling her from one part of town to another.
Fans can find Gordon in vocalist mode at night, with residencies at Wynn’s Delilah (Fridays and Saturdays) and Fontainebleau’s Nowhere Lounge (Tuesdays through Thursdays). She’s on the air at KLUC from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the mornings alongside veteran Vegas broadcaster Chet Buchanan.
“I grew up listening to Chet,” she says. “He was the radio host who came to my high school and covered my time on American Idol, so we’ve been friends forever.
“Getting the job was a full-circle moment. I feel so lucky to be able to talk and share my experiences with our community every morning,” Gordon shares.
BY LOUIIE VICTA
PHOTO
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY BO BRINKMAN
Rob Kachelriess
City Cast Las Vegas
Local politics often take a back seat when the country is swept up in the drama of U.S. Presidential Election Season 60 (season finale November 5!). But this is a consequential election season in Las Vegas. If you’re looking to brush up on the candidates and issues that will have a more immediate impact on your neighborhood, you might want to start following Rob Kachelriess.
This year, the veteran Las Vegas journalist joined the City Cast Las Vegas crew, a hyper-local news outlet covering the power players and power struggles in our neighborhoods.
“Las Vegas has a reputation as a transient market for residents and journalists,” the 12-year local explains. “City Cast is geared toward people who live in Las Vegas, understand Las Vegas, want to stay in Las Vegas and want to know what’s driving the decisions that impact all corners of the valley.”
A former television news producer (disclosure: we were longtime colleagues at KVVU-TV) and freelance writer largely recognized for his work in Thrillist, Kachelriess serves as writer/ editor of the daily City Cast Las Vegas newsletter and makes appearances on its eponymous podcast alongside hosts Dayvid Figler and Sarah Lohman.
“It just felt like the perfect fit for me,” Kachelriess says. “You can sense you’re at the beginning of something great here, and it’s one of those things where the individual parts are great, but the sum of the parts is even greater.
“This team knows the city and understands Las Vegas; our combined experience covers a lot of ground.”
Experience equals perspective and perspective is paramount in local journalism. Kachelriess and his colleagues have been around this town long enough to know “the guy behind the guy, behind the guy,” to borrow that old Swingers reference.
While national politics dominates much of today’s conversation, City Cast is also dialed into neighborhood politics. From the Badlands golf course controversy to the Oakland A’s Strip stadium fantasy, the City Cast crew is adept at breaking down the complex issues—“a lot of which don’t get enough attention,” Kachelriess says—in easily digestible 20-minute podcast episodes.
“Las Vegas is so much fun to cover because it’s always changing and never sits still,” he adds. “There’s always something happening and sometimes our local governments have a hard time saying ‘no’ to things.
“That can be good or bad, but it’s important for us to cover these stories in various formats and put eyes and ears on local issues that don’t always get enough attention.”
PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Sean McAllister and Dayna Roselli
Vegas Revealed
Vegas Revealed dominates the Strip’s entertainment news scene in a town where armchair social media journalists scramble to post unconfirmed rumors and fight over (allegedly) stolen scoops.
That’s no surprise, given that creators Dayna Roselli and Sean McAllister have been breaking stories and ground in local journalism for over two decades. The duo, natives of Rochester, New York, arrived in Vegas newsrooms a year apart (she at KLAS-TV in 2004, he at KVVU-TV in 2005) and worked for years at competing television stations. In 2020, they went into business for themselves, forming the content and media consultancy agency Insightful Media Co. and a new entertainment brand, Vegas Revealed.
Launching with a podcast and social media channels, the duo immediately gave audiences a new, reputable online source for everything from restaurant openings to residency announcements. More than 200 episodes later, they’re the ones locals (and out-of-towners) turn to when planning their next trip to Vegas.
“We’re surprised by some of the feedback, especially when people say, ‘I’m just now hearing about all this stuff!’” says Roselli. “Being so engrossed in the world of Las Vegas, we think everyone knows what we know, but they don’t and now we can bring that to them.”
Vegas Revealed was there when The Mirage closed its doors for good and fired off one last show from its volcano. When a GRAMMY-winning music artist is confirmed as the city’s next big headliner, Vegas Revealed gets the one-on-one interview. The podcast can be produced on the fly and audiences that still prefer seeing the hosts on screen can either go to YouTube or watch Roselli and McAllister on the television version of Vegas Revealed every weekend on KVVU-TV.
“We both have an excellent work ethic; we see eye to eye and we get it done,” says Roselli. “We both support each other and what we want to convey.”
McAllister adds, “We have high standards for the work we produce and it’s imperative to be on the same page in that area.”
High standards separate Vegas Revealed from the rest of the entertainment pack. Local television made the duo household names and faces, giving them a foundation of trust with Las Vegas audiences. Their journalistic instincts, self-awareness and respect for the reporting process have elevated them above the city’s gaggle of social media hearsay spreaders.
“We’re hybrid in that we do so many
different things—we’re podcasting, reporting on social media and TV—but we keep to a schedule because that’s easier for our audience to find us,” Roselli says.
SURVEYING THE ENTERTAINMENT LANDSCAPE
Roselli and McAllister moved from the broadcast studio to the podcast studio when the city was at a standstill. Launching a new business venture during the pandemic was a risky bet. Still, one that’s paid off, as Vegas Revealed has witnessed some of the biggest entertainment, sports and pop culture stories in recent memory.
It’s only going to get bigger.
“We’re watching the dawn of Hollywood coming to Las Vegas, and the westside is going to be the epicenter of all of that action when a studio is built there,” McAllister says. “That’s been incredible to see and there’s more news coming on that front.”
“And people want to know every detail,” adds Roselli. “Whether it’s movie production or what’s happening with local sports teams, they want to know what’s shifting in entertainment.
“For us right now, it’s a balancing act because we have a substantial local audience and people from around the world who found our podcast during the pandemic. We must make sure we cater to both audiences.”
One thing all audiences flock to Vegas Revealed to hear is celebrity interviews. Having spent years talking to stars during their broadcast careers, Roselli and McAllister have earned a reputation for their frank and funny conversations. Among the most recent guests on the podcast are Venetian headliner Jason Derulo, country singer Blake Shelton and Palms party captain Sammy Hagar.
“We’re authentic and that allows us to get authentic responses from the people we’re interviewing and the audience loves that,” says McAllister. “It’s different from other types of entertainment programming where things can be edited—we put our conversations out there and let people in.”
THE VEGAS REVEALED WISHLIST
Vegas Revealed is best enjoyed when the hosts break the news of comings and goings in the city’s entertainment scene. So, asking the hosts which headliner they would love to see on the Strip is fitting. Their answers aren’t speculation, just wishful thinking.
Sean McAllister: “I would love to have Celine back on the scene, in top form, doing her thing. Aside from that, I would love to see P!nk here. She’s been one of my top artists for a long time and was packing arenas here before many others were.”
Dayna Roselli: “I am a Swiftie and I don’t think we’ll see a Taylor Swift residency, but I want to see Taylor Swift at The Sphere. I think that would be a spectacular show and it would be nice to see a female artist there.”
PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
BY JEN SMITH
It’s never too hot for hometown pride, especially for local sports teams. Now through the end of September, the Las Vegas Aviators are taking on triple-A rival teams at Las Vegas Ballpark. The regular schedule of Aviators games against the Albuquerque Isotopes, Round Rock Express and Oklahoma City is a great way to fulfill your love of America’s favorite pastime, baseball. Take the outing up a notch with private suites, perfect for families and groups of friends to enjoy a ball game in the comfort of air conditioning and gourmet ballpark eats with a full-service bar. Other perks of the suite life include access to in-seat waiter service, wider seats with 100 percent air-ventilated mesh backs and bottoms, a VIP entrance and complimentary valet parking. Suites can seat 20, 40 or even 60 baseball fans. thelvballpark.com
ANSEL AT HOME
The cronut inventor is bringing more decadence to the table— and home kitchens everywhere. Renowned French Chef Dominique Ansel is debuting a pastry flour in collaboration with Grands Moulins de Paris, the top retail flour brand in the world, whose products are already used to make the tasty treats by Ansel’s team inside Caesars Palace. This finely milled wheat flour is recognized for its texture, strength, versatility and taste and is available on Amazon. dominiqueanselonline.com.
LET’S TAKE A SELFIE
Finally, a chance for all generations to take part in the art of taking selfies. The Selfie Studio: Decades Tour is back for the fall 2024 school season, with the last several decades well represented in eight aesthetic vignettes. Partnering with Atlanta-based NGK Agency, guests can snap their new favorite pics from August 1 to 27. Setups include The Diner of the ’50s; Mellow Meadows of the ’60s; Disco Fever of the ’70s; The Gamer of the ’80s; The Video Store going Back to the ’90s; Teenage Dream of the ’00s; Gone Viral for this decade and The Future. This complimentary pop-up is inside the Great Hall at Fashion Show Las Vegas. fslv.com.
DRYBAR ARRIVES OUT WEST
The new blowout boutique in Boca Park is a favorite in beauty. Drybar’s latest location in the Fashion Village is a luxury destination where washes, styling and blowouts are included in every visit. Expert cosmetologists make up the seasoned staff, all ready to provide beautiful services in a sleek setting. While traditional haircuts are not on the lineup, styles range from casual and tousled to classic, sophisticated and beyond for bespoke appointments. Memberships and packages are also available. drybarshops.com.
WEEKLY SWEAT SESSIONS
Take that trendy workout you love to the great outdoors—or a well-manicured lawn. Downtown Summerlin hosts weekly sweat sessions alternating between yoga, highintensity interval training (HIIT) classes and other popular workouts. Join Fitness on the Lawn events every Tuesday through September 26, thanks to local and national fitness gurus such as TruFusion Summerlin, Pure Barre, lululemon, Fit4Mom, Fabletics and FP Movement. Grab your water bottle and sweat towel and enjoy weeks of hot Summerlin nights. summerlin.com.
LIGHT-YEARS AHEAD
Light therapy in the desert goes beyond trips to the pool. Regenerative Health System, founded by Dan Holtz and Tony Robbins, now offers its signature stateof-the-art scalar wave light therapy to Boca Park visitors looking for increased wellness, relaxation, cellular rejuvenation and vitality. The patented 48-unit Energy Enhancing System (EESystem) promotes pain relief, detoxification and increased energy levels through a balanced brain. As a bonus, pets can take advantage of therapy treatments in similar forms. regenerativehealthsystems.com.
SWEET TREAT
Take an international vacation through a local ice cream shop visit. Milkcow is a South Korean ice cream concept incorporating natural honey and popular add-ins into authentic frozen treats. Each creation is crafted with milk from California cows for freshness and quality, as evident from the first bite. Beyond the soft serve, Milkcow offers boba, slushes, fruit teas, shakes and floats in fun flavors to beat this intense summer heat. The flavor creations seemingly know no limits, with some selections topped with cotton candy or arriving with a generous hunk of honeycomb. Stop in for a refreshing Watermelon Sandwich with bright fruit sorbet stacked between two juicy watermelon slices for a unique summer treat. Don’t forget to order brunch with a softserve-loaded croffle and pistachio, strawberry or Oreo toppings. milkcownv.com.
GREAT UPCOMING EVENTS
BY BECCA BLOND
Live Karaoke and Ladies Night at Rouge Room
Thursdays and Fridays in August, Red Rock Resort
Rouge Room at Red Rock Resort has introduced its August lineup of events, including Ladies’ Night, with live music every Friday night. Ladies will receive 50 percent off drinks all night, and the intimate velvet cocktail lounge will host various DJs and live bands each week. Rouge Star Karaoke begins on August 1 and will continue every Thursday. It includes live karaoke band support from The Busker Kings. Karaoke nights run from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and the bar stays open until 1 a.m. rougeroomlv.com.
AnnaMarie Lao Carley, MD: Forgotten Connection
Now through August 18, Summerlin Library
Dr. AnnaMarie Lao Carley believes a “connection to nature and community is essential to the human condition.” As a physician and artist, she combines her love of medicine, nature, and painting to create dynamic compositions. Her father encouraged her not just to draw but to study the inner workings of her subjects. Taking his advice, she pursued medicine and attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison Medical School. Her striking paintings reflect the remarkable observational talents she has developed on her path. Free. thelibrarydistrict.org.
Kulay: Colors of Life
Now through August 31, 2024, Left of Center Gallery
William “Bill Bon,” an artist and illustrator, brings his solo exhibition to Left of Center Gallery. Bon has worked on several iconic animated series, including The Rugrats Movie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Animaniacs. He uses extensive knowledge and experience when leading his life drawing and portrait classes every Saturday. Visit the Left of Center Gallery to see his versatile portfolio firsthand. Free. leftofcenterart.org.
Great Gatsby Party
August 3, Legacy Club at Circa Resort & Casino
Don your best 1920s garb for the Legacy Club’s Great Gatsby party. The cocktail lounge on the 60th floor of Circa Resort & Casino will transform into a speakeasy for the night. Event highlights include a 1920s costume contest with a $250 Legacy Club credit prize, an open bar with specialty cocktails, light bites and live jazz. The event runs from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. and is open to guests 21 and over. Tickets are $150 per person, not including LET tax. circalasvegas.com.
Toyota Broadway Las Vegas Series: Company and The Cher Show
August 20–25 (Company), September 17–22 (The Cher Show), The Smith Center
The Smith Center’s latest Toyota Broadway Las Vegas Series continues with Stephen Sondheim and George Furth’s musical comedy masterpiece Company in August. In September, the Tony Award-winning musical The Cher Show will tell the superstar’s story. Tickets for both shows start at $35, rising to $150 for the best seats. thesmithcenter.com.
Nas with the Las Vegas Philharmonic
August 29 and 31, September 1, Encore Theater
On April 19, 1994, 20-year-old Nasir Jones, also known as Nas, released his first fulllength album Illmatic. In honor of the 30th anniversary of this seminal recording, the timeless poet and rhyme master embarks on a series of concerts alongside the Las Vegas Philharmonic, celebrating the work that many regard as the greatest hip-hop album of all time. As a legendary hip-hop mogul, co-founder of Mass Appeal Records, actor and executive producer, Nas’ extensive catalog is not just a collection of albums but a testament to his profound influence on the genre. Following the monumental success of Illmatic, Nas continued to shape the hip-hop landscape with 14 subsequent albums. Eight are multi-platinum and platinum, and with 16 GRAMMY nominations, Nas’ impact was further recognized with his first-ever GRAMMY win for “Best Rap Album” for King’s Disease in 2020. wynnlasvegas.com.
RISE UP GALA
September 20, Wynn Las Vegas
Join the Tyler Robinson Foundation and Imagine Dragons to raise funds for pediatric cancer at the 10th annual Rise Up Gala, a star-studded evening hosted by actor and comedian Joel McHale, featuring an exclusive acoustic performance by Imagine Dragons. The event includes a cocktail hour, dinner, live and silent auctions and all-star entertainment. All proceeds raised benefit TRF, with 85 percent of every dollar directly supporting families in need. Sponsorships from $10,000. trf.org.
BY BECCA BLOND
Mob Month Film Screenings
August 1–29, The Beverly Theater Crime, power and betrayal: The Beverly Theater is rolling out the red carpet for some of the best mob films ever made to celebrate Mob Month in August. The screenings kick off on August 1 with the newly restored 70th-anniversary edition of On the Waterfront starring Marlon Brando. Screenings then rotate throughout the month, including New Jack City, Innocent Blood, Bugsy, The Godfather Part II, Casino, Gloria and Branded to Kill. Showtimes vary. $13. thebeverlytheater.com.
Friday Dine In Movie Nights
August 9, Sept. 13, M Resort
M Resort is premiering Dive In Movie Nights at M Pool with poolside showings of classic big-screen flicks. Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure
will be the feature on August 9 and Uncharted will play on September 13. Tickets are $10 each for all ages and each film will start at 8 p.m. Doors to M Pool open at 7:30 p.m. themresort.com.
John Summit – Comfort in Chaos
Aug. 10, 17, 31 and Sept. 21, LIV Beach and Nov. 22, LIV Nightclub
Multi-genre artist and global dance sensation John Summit will perform at LIV Beach and LIV Nightclub at the Fontainebleau Resort Las Vegas on select August, September and November dates, supporting his debut album Comfort in Chaos. LIV Beach general admission tickets start at $89.82 for men and $59.88 for women. General admission tickets to the LIV Las Vegas
Alan Parsons Live Project
August 17, The Smith Center
Master of progressive rock Alan Parsons and his Alan Parsons Live Project will return to The Smith Center to play his best-known hits on the rock band’s Reset and Power Back On Tour. A GRAMMY Award winner, Parsons formed The Alan Parsons Project in 1975 and released his most recent studio album, From the New World, in 2022. The show starts at 7:30 p.m., and tickets range from $40 to $130. thesmithcenter.com.
MMGNET: Project, Magic and Sourcing Magic Las Vegas
August 19 through August 21, Las Vegas Convention Center
This three-day fashion industry event at the Las Vegas Convention Center brings together a global community of manufacturers, suppliers, brands and retail buyers. Whether you are designing your first collection or scaling your business, this convention offers daily programming consisting of engaging panel discussions and cutting-edge presentations headed by various industry leaders. reg.fashionresource.com/lasvegas.
Falynne Lewing presents Michael Jackson – A Thrilling Tribute: Hosted by The Autism Coalition of Nevada
September 5, The Smith Center
Race Weekend show (Nov. 22) start at $89.82 for men and $47.91 for women. fontainebleaulasvegas.com.
Spiegelworld DISCOSHOW
Debuting August 14, The LINQ Hotel + Experience
The world premiere of Spiegelworld’s DISCOSHOW will be held on Saturday, September 7, but public preview shows start August 14. The show will be in a newly constructed Stripside venue, including a new restaurant, Diner Ross, with table service and bars 99 Prince and Glitterloft. The show propels “guests through the full experience of disco across the 1970s and beyond.” Performances occur Wednesday through Sunday at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; tickets cost $99 (including taxes). spiegelworld.com/discoshow.
The Autism Coalition of Nevada (ACON) is hosting Michael Jackson – A Thrilling Tribute, presented by Falynne Lewing at The Smith Center, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit. From the infectious rhythms of Off the Wall to the spine-tingling spectacle of Thriller, the timeless groove of “Billie Jean,” and the slick moves of “Smooth Criminal,” Lewing and her dynamic dancers will transport you into the world of the King of Pop. The show starts at 7 p.m.; tickets cost between $30 and $125. thesmithcenter.com.
VIVA St. Jude
September 7–9, Resorts World Las Vegas
Golf, food, fashion and poker come together for the inaugural VIVA St. Jude held at different Resorts World venues from Thursday through Saturday. Highlights of the fundraising weekend for the children’s cancer research hospital include a Friday golf tournament and Saturday’s Viva Fashion Soirée, which features a dining experience, premium open bar, live auction, live entertainment and the stunning designs of Anne Fontaine. Afterward, attendees can participate in The Daniel Negreanu Poker Tournament, a turbo live poker
LENNY KRAVITZ: BLUE ELECTRIC LIGHT LAS VEGAS
October 18–19, 23, 25–26, Park MGM
Four-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist Lenny Kravitz will hold five exclusive Las Vegas concerts supporting his new album Blue Electric Light in October at Dolby Live. Kravitz wrote and recorded his 12th studio album in the Bahamas, and his mastery of deep-soul rock ’n’ roll shines in the impassioned 12 tracks for which he wrote and played most of the instruments. 8 p.m. Tickets from $90. parkmgm.com.
tournament with a chance to win a seat to the 2024 World Series of Poker. Times and prices vary. stjude.org/vivastjude.
Andrew Schulz – The Life Tour
September 13, BleauLive Theater at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas Internationally touring stand-up comic and podcaster Andrew Schulz returns to BleauLive Theater inside Fontainebleau Las Vegas for leg two of The Life Tour. The show is a comedic exploration of existence in all its messy glory, exploring the realms of current events, politics and “the beautiful chaos of creating life.” Standard admission tickets for the 8 p.m. show start at $69.95 and go up to $259.95 for the best seats. fontainebleaulasvegas.com.
Girls Scouts of Southern Nevada Dessert Before Dinner Gala
September 14, Encore at Wynn Mercedes Martinez from Mercedes in the Morning will emcee the
Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada’s Dessert Before Dinner Gala, honoring seven female community leaders. The annual fundraising gala supports scouting experiences like STEAM camp, entrepreneurship opportunities and teaching leadership and advocacy skills. A live and silent auction will be held at the event. 6 p.m.–9:30 p.m. General admission tickets are $600. onecau.se/2024dbd.
SafeNest: The B.O.L.D. Showcase
Sept. 21, Red Rock Resort
Be a fearless fashionista at SafeNest’s gala, The B.O.L.D. Showcase. Enjoy riveting performances by Broadway in the Hood and a B.O.L.D. Fashion Show featuring special guests. SafeNest is a Nevada-based nonprofit organization devoted to eradicating domestic and sexual abuse. This fundraiser aims to raise $150,000 to support at-risk children through programs like Coaching Boys Into Men, Athletes as Leaders and Camp HOPE. 10 a.m. $175 plus fees. safenest.org.
in 2013, Kill Tony is known for encouraging amateur comedians to showcase their talents on a grander stage. 8 p.m. axs.com.
Life is Beautiful: A Big Beautiful Block Party
September 27–28, 324 S. Main
The inaugural Life is Beautiful block party is being held over two days in the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District and will have no overlapping sets. The lineup features an eclectic mix of top-tier talent, including the iconic electronic duo Justice, innovative DJ and producer Peggy Gou, and the legendary LCD Soundsystem. Joining them are Jamie XX, modern-soul collective Jungle and the captivating sounds of James Blake. Tickets start at $199. events.lifeisbeautiful.com.
Las Vegas Greek Food Festival
September 27–29, St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
The annual Las Vegas Greek Food Festival returns this fall. The threeday celebration embodies the heart of Kefi, a Greek word meaning “joyous passion.” Festival goers may enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, live entertainment, hand-crafted jewelry vendors and a raffle to win $10,000 or a trip to Greece, benefiting a good cause. 3 p.m. Oneday admission is $10 plus fees; coupon book admission is $25 plus fees. lasvegasgreekfest.com.
Picnic in the Alley
September 21, Downtown Las Vegas Arts District Picnic in the Alley, a women’s epicurean event, returns for its third year this September. Held in a secret downtown location, it brings together the valley’s top female voices to provide an exciting evening of the best bites, beverages, entertainment and education. Beyond spotlighting the women of Las Vegas, all profits from this year’s Picnic in the Alley will be donated to the Women’s Hospitality Initiative. The event is 21+. 7 p.m. General admission is $125. picnicinthealley.com.
Kill Tony
Sept. 25, Resorts World
The chart-topping podcast Kill Tony makes its Vegas debut at Resorts World Theatre. Hosted by Tony Hinchcliffe and Brian Redban, the one-night-only show will test the talents of emerging Las Vegas comics on one of their biggest stages yet. Get ready for a night of laughs, jokes, and a panel of surprise celebrity guests. Created
Shin Lim: Limitless Opening in October, The Palazzo Theatre at The Venetian Resort
Shin Lim, the Canadian-born, American-raised Asian-Pacific magician who stunned viewers on “America’s Got Talent,” is reimagining his Las Vegas residency with a move to The Palazzo Theatre. Lim is known for redefining how close-up magic is presented by performing carefully self-choreographed routines. “CBS Sunday Morning” has called him “one of the most astonishing illusionists ever.” venetianlasvegas.com.
Las Vegas Philharmonic: The Beatles 60th Anniversary Concert
October 5, The Smith Center
Hear all of your favorite Beatles hits performed by the Las Vegas Philharmonic in an unmatched symphonic experience in honor of the Fab Four’s 60th anniversary. The magical musical tour will take you back to the British Invasion. Single ticket sales for this concert go on sale August 12. It is also available to season subscription holders. 7:30 p.m. lvphil.org.
WASH, WOOF, REPEAT
During the dog days of summer, make sure your best friend looks cute
Summer is in full swing, and everyone is feeling the heat, including your Bernadoodle. Now is the perfect time to ensure your beloved pup looks (and feels) their best. From nose to tail and toes to ears, these groomers will help your best friend beat the dog days of summer and look and feel great while doing it.
BY IVY GRIFFITH
No Cages, Please
If your dog is a free spirit and needs a groomer who respects their individuality, Shaggy Shaggy Shake has just the environment for you. Founded in 2012 to be “the best in town,” Shaggy Shaggy Shake fosters a safe environment for your furry family member. Clients free roam (safely) in the shop, which keeps everyone relaxed and feeling at home. If the idea of your dog being caged at the groomer is a “no” from you, Shaggy Shaggy Shake has your back. shaggyshaggyshake.com.
Pampering at Home
If you’re like most people during the summer, your schedule is jam-packed and you cannot find a free moment. Hot Under the Collar Mobile Pet Styling comes right to your door with a mobile setup that can only be described as “woof-tastic luxury.” You can breathe easy knowing that your dog is just outside your door and in the hands of CPR and First Aid-certified groomers who specialize in making the process simple and relaxing. hutcgrooming.com.
More Than a Trim
When the Well-Groomed Pets team works with your dog, you get more than a simple grooming session. The Well-Groomed Pets (WGP) Henderson location is a grooming and wellness shop, and they keep their customers updated throughout the process with texts. WGP offers physical, physiological and behavioral wellness checks to ensure each pet feels their best. And they have a high standard for hiring groomers, requiring each to be at the top of their game. wellgroomedpets.com/henderson.
Pampered on the Go
Zoomin’ Groomin’ is more than another mobile grooming service: they’re a pampering palace on the go. Servicing a wide area, Zoomin’ Groomin’ promises to treat your furry family members like the valued individual they are. With a spa-like environment, the Zoomin’ van ensures every pet feels and looks their best, all from the comfort of your property. They specialize in dogs, cats and special needs pets who require an extra-careful touch. zoomingroomin.com.
All Sizes Welcome
If your beloved pet is on the gigantic side, never fear: Ruffs and Tuffs Dog Spa is here. They specialize in dogs of all sizes, from the tiny to the titanic. With an endorsement from Retriever Rescue of Las Vegas, you know they’re good at what they do. This Summerlin spa delivers an individualized experience to ensure your pet is pampered, cherished and returned to you looking ready for a summer party. ruffsandtuffsdogspa.com.
Now EVENT
SWIM IN, SWIM OUT
Swim Week lands in Las Vegas for the first time
BY BECCA BLOND
Celebrating fashion, creativity and community, Art Hearts Fashion will host the inaugural Swim Week Las Vegas Festival from August 15 to 19 in partnership with Resorts World.
Featured designers hitting the runway at Zouk inside Resorts World for two days of shows include Berry Beachy Swimwear, Christian Audigier, Lila Nikole, Love For Upcycling, Matte Collection, Nike Swim, Scotch & Soda and Steve Madden. These innovative and trend-setting designers will offer attendees a first look at the future of
swimwear and resort fashion for spring 2025. Art Hearts Fashion is a leading platform dedicated to bringing designers and artists to the forefront of fashion week. They put on coast-to-coast contemporary events in New York, Los Angeles, Miami and now Las Vegas. Founded in 2010, Art Hearts Fashion has become a driving force for fashion, art and entertainment with shows featuring designers Nicole Miller, Carmen Steffens, Hale Bob, Michael Costello, Trina Turk, Orlebar Brown, Patbo, Onia, Furne Amato, Walter Mendez, Vilebrequin, Jovani,
IF YOU GO…
Schedule of Events
Thursday, August 15: After Party, Slander at Zouk, tickets $20–$50.
Friday, August 16:
4 p.m. Mix + Mingle at Gatsby.
6 p.m. Runway shows at Zouk, general admission $50. After Party with Illenium at Zouk, tickets $50.
Saturday, August 17:
12 p.m. Ayu with Kaskade, general admission from $30, cabanas and stage access available. 4 p.m. Mix + Mingle at Gatsby.
6 p.m. Runway shows at Zouk, general admission $50, runway seating from $150. After Party, Duke Dumont at Zouk, general admission $20.
Sunday, August 18:
12 p.m. Daytime Finale Pool Party at Ayu Dayclub, tickets $20–$75.
Monday, August 19: 4 p.m. Mix & Mingle at Gatsby.
5:30 p.m. Surprise Final Event.
Cotton INC, Black Tape Project, Mr. Triple X and Michael NGO.
“Swim Week Las Vegas is going to be the marquee event of the summer,” says Ronn Nicolli, CMO of Resorts World Las Vegas. “We’re proud to partner with Art Hearts Fashion to introduce the energy and scale of Miami Swim Week to Vegas and add our own Las Vegas signature to it.”
Art Hearts Fashion partners with several prominent charities, including Make-A-Wish and Project Cancerland. The platform actively advocates for inclusivity. artheartsfashion.com.
NATURAL WOMAN
Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum celebrates the legacy of one of Southern Nevada’s most significant artists
BY BECCA BLOND
Open to the public since 2022, the Rita Deanin Abbey Art Museum is a hidden desert oasis tucked away in a residential neighborhood in the northwest, featuring an array of art entirely by its namesake, Rita Deanin Abbey. A prolific artist, writer and educator, Abbey made Las Vegas her home in 1965 and lived here until her death in March 2021 at age 90. She taught at what is now UNLV for 22 years and was among its first arts instructors. She had over 60 solo exhibitions and 160 group shows during her career.
The 10,500-square-foot museum captures the extraordinary breadth of Abbey’s art, including abstract expressionism, figures, landscapes and non-objective subject matter, heavily influenced by scenic southwestern landscapes. Her works span various mediums, from painting to printmaking, sculpture to porcelain enamel fired on steel, and stained glass to computer art, all reflecting her profound connection to nature.
Abbey stated that “the infinite wonder of nature has had the greatest influence on my work. I have explored desert landscapes and have been deeply affected by rock formations, vistas, sunsets, rivers, and the colors and textures of secret canyons.”
Situated on a 10-acre site next to her home and studio, the museum houses around 200 pieces of her work, although this is just a fraction of the thousands she created over her lifetime. Highlights include the “Spirit Tower,” an angular steel sculpture she made in 1993 for the Summerlin Library, and “Wall of Creation,” a massive fiberglass and polyester resin piece installed initially at Las Vegas’ Temple Beth Sholom. Exhibits incorporate Abbey’s work, from her early copper reliefs and bronze sculptures to her later colorful plexiglass creations and figure drawings.
The museum design enhances the experience as well. Lush greenery on the ceiling and paper lanterns illuminate walkways. A lightbox brightens an intriguing distant landscape, while dark-blue walls embellished with gold chains and climbing vines add to the immersive environment, drawing you into Abbey’s world. The outdoor sculpture park and desert garden are tranquil spots.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum has rotating exhibits and educational programs. Docent-led tours provide insightful commentary on her creative process and the themes that permeate her art.
The museum, located at 5850 N. Park Street, is open by appointment Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult admission is $20, with a discounted rate of $15 for Las Vegas residents, seniors 65+ and military with valid ID. Silent Sunday tours from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. also allow you to visit without noise for $15. Docent-led tours are $30. ritadeaninabbeymuseum.org.
City of Hope Cancer Center Phoenix Breaks Ground on Surgical Center Expansion With Valley Community
BY NOAH FLACK
City of Hope® Cancer Center Phoenix broke ground on a leading-edge surgical center expansion, marking the latest milestone in its mission to bring optimal cancer care to more patients, families and communities. The expansion will dramatically expand City of Hope’s capacity in Arizona and further cement its role as one of the most advanced, dedicated cancer research and treatment centers in the region. Local and state government representatives, business community members, cancer support organizations and others from across the valley attended the event.
“What a meaningful day with our community, which has partnered with us every step of the way to improve cancer care and quality of life for West Valley residents and patients across Arizona,” said Kevin Tulipana, D.O., M.S., president of City of Hope Cancer Center Phoenix. “Arizonans deserve
comprehensive, personalized cancer care, and we are answering the call with new and growing surgical space, technology and talent.”
City of Hope is one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the country. City of Hope Phoenix and Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of City Hope, are accelerating the development of breakthroughs and creating a cycle of innovation where research leads to new treatments. This benefits the Phoenix community and beyond through genomics research, fully leveraged to provide highly specialized care and precision medicine treatment to City of Hope patients in Arizona and across the country.
Style
ALLURE / DWELL / SHOP / FASHION
BY GABBY LEIGHTON
This May, Tiffany & Co. debuted the Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams collection. The famed singer, rapper, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer drew inspiration from the water and Poseidon, ruler of the sea and King of Atlantis, which is also the name of the community where Williams grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia. As such, the jewelry pieces – including necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings – all incorporate sharp, spear-like spikes with a flair of punk spirit. The earrings shown here feature bold contoured links crafted from 18-karat gold and black titanium for a striking contrast, with the titanium being a nod to beauty in blackness. Fishtail-set pave diamonds allow light to enter from every angle, another intentional detail found throughout the collection. $15,900 at Tiffany & Co., www.tiffany.com.
OCEAN CALLING
Dive into shades of blue this season
Gel eyeliner, Hourglass, $21 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.
Eye pencil, Jane Iredale, $32 at Citrine, www.citrinenaturalskin. com.
Shimmer lip gloss, Surratt, $32 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.
Volumizing mascara, Dior, $33 at Neiman Marcus.
Glitter mascara/ eyeliner, $6.99 at H&M, www.hm.com.
High-shine eye shadow, Anastasia Beverly Hills, $26 at Nordstrom.
CHECKMATE
Modern twists on the classic pattern
Gray throw blanket, Barefoot Dreams, $148 at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.
Brown warped accent pillow, Deny Designs, $49 at Nordstrom.
Black-and-white ceramic vase, Emissary Home & Garden, $480 at Daniel House Club, www.danielhouse. club.
Large glass vase, Orrefors, $500 at Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com.
Rustic oak nightstand, Theodore Alexander, $3,275 at Daniel House Club.
Light blue and white rug, $2,160 at Jonathan Adler, www. jonathanadler.com.
YEEHAW, Y’ALL!
Kick up your boots to the cowboy aesthetic
Bandana-print silk halterneck top, Nili Lotan, $450 at Neta-Porter, www.net-aporter.com.
Straw cowboy hat, Brixton, $129 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.
Turquoise and pearl pendent necklace, Ettika, $120 at Nordstrom.
Denim bag with leather handle, Jacquemus, $671 at Shopbop, www. shopbop.com.
Denim midi skirt, $37.99 at H&M, www. hm.com.
Taupe crockembossed belt, Anderson’s, $190 at Shopbop.
SLIDING THROUGH SUMMER
Easy breezy sandals for any warm weather occasion
Yellow printed espadrilles, Dolce & Gabbana, $625 at Nordstrom, www. nordstrom.com.
Tan woven with raffia bow, Schutz, $118 at Shopbop, www.shopbop.com.
Pink nylon and neoprene with debossed branding, Alexander Wang, $350 at Nordstrom.
Brown squaretoe with stitching, $31.99 at H&M, www. hm.com.
Black with shiny mesh flowers, $49.90 at Zara, www. zara.com.
Blue double buckle, Birkenstock, $150 at Shopbop.
DRESS: Pink and blue patterned midi with tassels, $425. From Alicia Bell, www.aliciabell.com.
DRESS: Pink, white, and gold halter mini, $375. From Alicia Bell, www.aliciabell.com.
DRESS: Multicolor floral long-sleeve maxi, $500. From Alicia Bell, www.aliciabell.com.
DRESS: Multicolor scoop halter maxi with tassels, $350. From Alicia Bell, www.aliciabell.com.
DRESS: Multicolor floral maxi with rosette, $360.From Alicia Bell, www.aliciabell.com.
Luxe
WHEELS / WANT / HAUTE PROPERTY
BY GABBY LEIGHTON
The start of August means the end of summer vacations and the beginning of the school year, buckling down at work, and obligations galore. Start the season off on an organized note with the new Calendar Max from Skylight. The 27-inch product – available in both the shadow box version encased in aluminum or the classic option which comes in a white or black plastic frame – is a smart touchscreen calendar and organizer. Build for walt mounting in either landscape or portrait mode, calendar features include: a chore chart, color-coding, custom to-do lists, and dinner planning. Users can adjust the font size and toggle between day, week, month, and schedule views. The calendar can be managed from anywhere thanks for the compatible mobile app. Other highlights include weather forecasting and the ability to invite friends and family to access the calendar. Shadow box, $599.99; classic, $569.99. www.skylightframe.com.
2024 TOYOTA LAND CRUISER
The brand’s legendary flagship model makes its triumphant return
BY JIM PRUETER
After being discontinued three years ago, Toyota’s flagship of seven decades, the Land Cruiser, has returned as a smaller, more affordable and completely redesigned SUV for 2024.
The new Land Cruiser is offered in three trim levels: the base Land Cruiser 1958, Land Cruiser and Land Cruiser First Edition. It seats five and is powered by a 326-horsepower, 465-pound-feet of torque, 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that integrates an electric motor into an 8-speed automatic transmission Toyota calls the i-Force Max.
Styling of the new Land Cruiser is a complete departure from the last iteration, drawing largely on its charming retro heritage design cues. This is especially apparent in the 1958 trim, which features round headlights and “Toyota” spelled out in the grille, a look last seen on the 40-series Land Cruiser from the early 1960s. Rectangular LED headlamps on the mid-trim Land Cruiser suggest the later FJ62 Series. The First Edition, which is limited to just 5,000 units for 2024, also gets the round headlights. Toyota wouldn’t comment whether the 5,000 are all sold out so it’s possible buyers could find one, but at a premium cost.
In terms of overall size, this year’s model is smaller than the previous Land Cruiser and it is officially classified as a mid-sized SUV.
The overall look of the interior is (much like the exterior) blocky by design in a pleasing vintage kind of way. The most luxe trim, the First Edition, refines the convenience and comfort quotient, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system, a moonroof, a head-up display, and a center console cool box to keep beverages cold. For off-roading enthusiasts, it retains the fulltime four-wheel drive system with an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case but now utilizes a Torsen limited-slip differential and a locking rear differential. There’s up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance and all come with a standard tow hitch with a 6,000-pound capacity. Overall, the return of the Land Cruiser is a more than welcomed favorite. But make no mistake; the new Land Cruiser isn’t the same vehicle as the previous model and if tradition and reputation of the Land Cruiser is to be upheld, its offroad talents and capabilities will be everything and more than the leviathan it replaced.
VITAL STATS:
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser
Base Price: $74,950
Price as Tested: $78,418
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with hybrid electrical assist
Horsepower: 326
Seating: 5
Fab features: Head-turning retro styling charm
Superior off-road capability
Excellent driving feel and dynamics
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EPIC EXPLORATION
Pearl Seas Cruises debuts a 14-night cruise through the Great Lakes
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ / PHOTO BY PEARL SEAS CRUISES: PEARL MIST
For more than 15 years, Pearl Seas Cruises – a Cruise Critic’s Cruisers’ Choice Award winner for Best Small Ship Line in the U.S. & Canada – has offered an intimate means to explore the Great Lakes, Canadian Maritimes, St. Lawrence Seaway, and New England. This year, for the first time ever, the brand will not only operate four different itineraries that visit 16 ports of call, but it has also introduced a new 14-Night Great Lakes Explorer cruise that provides the opportunity to sail all five Great Lakes in a single journey.
The adventure begins in Toronto, and there is a precruise package that invites guests to arrive a day ahead of departure to stay at the five-star Four Seasons Hotel Toronto in the exclusive Yorkville neighborhood. Prior to the cruise, the package also includes a city excursion, allowing for exploration of the Saint Lawrence Markets, Chinatown, the Distillery District, and the renowned Fashion District.
Once on board, expect to visit Niagara Falls from the Ontario side with a local guide well-versed in the best vantage points as well as the importance of the region in history. The boat also has stops in: Cleveland, where there are
myriad adventures from which to choose, including the chance to experience the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the buzzy downtown in the evening; Detroit, which offers time at the Detroit Institute of Arts, a remarkable museum located in the heart of midtown with more than 65,000 works, and walks along The Dequindre Cut Greenway, a 2-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront and historic neighborhoods; and Marquette, offering miles of Lake Superior shoreline dotted with historic lighthouses as well as a slew of local breweries, wineries and tap houses.
There are also stops in regions that are not as widely known. Among them: Parry Sound, a picturesque port town inside the UNESCO-designated Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve; Mackinac Island, a living Victorian town where motorized vehicles are prohibited in favor of bikes and horse-drawn carriages; Sault Sainte Marie, located at the junction of Lake Superior and Lake Huron; and Duluth, the biggest inland harbor in the world.
The new sailing starts at $10,800 per person based on double occupancy – with some sailings inclusive of airfare – and takes place on the Pearl Mist, which is limited to just 210 total guests and recently completed a renovation. Guests can expect elegant and comfortable furnishings and a variety of spaces to both revel and relax as well as multiple open sun decks, a fitness area, and a glass-enclosed dining room offering panoramic views. Each sailing boasts onboard historians and naturalists, a culinary program featuring locally sourced ingredients, all-inclusive dining, evening entertainment with a focus on live music, Wi-Fi, and twice daily stateroom service. Rooms range from 275 to approximately 600 square feet, and all have unobstructed ocean views, flat-screen televisions, fully furnished private balconies, and full-length sliding glass doors to offer spectacular views.
Learn more information and book at www.pearlseascruises.com.
SPOTLIGHT: 92 SUN GLOW
BY IVY GRIFFITH
Inside The Ridges, the expansive modern estate at 92 Sun Glow Lane offers 9,311 square feet of clean, crisp, soul-soothing luxury. Whether you’re looking for a family residence or an entertainer’s dream, this property has it all. Unique features like the subterranean level proffer endless possibilities, from movie nights to fitness routines, while the outdoor living space beckons you to bask in the Las Vegas sunshine.
With five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, it’s the perfect home for a family or anyone who desires ample room for socializing and a seamless blend of nature and technology. When strolling through 92 Sun Glow Lane, you quickly notice the breath-offresh-air feel combined with all the contemporary touches, like authentic wood floors and tawny-colored natural stone finishes.
The chef’s kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line appliances that make cooking a joy. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand soirée, this kitchen impresses even the most sophisticated connoisseurs.
The master bedroom offers wraparound windows and a private glass-railing patio, with automatic blinds to make your “rise and shine” a “go and glow” morning. The master bath boasts an oversized standalone tub and a glass shower with enough space to waltz from one to the other. Marble counters and walls evoke a tranquil, spa-like feel. The other four bedrooms follow a similar crisp design scheme.
The subterranean level houses a private media room and a state-of-the-art gym. It’s the perfect retreat for movie nights or an intense training session. Back upstairs in the living area, sliding pocket doors bring the outdoors in, and the pool, spa and barbecue area beckon you outside. Hedges and a privacy fence lend the property a secluded, villa-like feel. Although The Ridges are far enough from the city to breathe deeply, they’re close enough to be convenient, making this spacious and luxurious modern home a blend of urban and local with all the benefits of both. 92 Sun Glow Lane. Listed for $10,999,000 with Brian Nugent of IS Luxury Real Estate; 623.302.3090; brian@isluxury.com.
RAISE YOUR WINE IQ
It takes a little to know a lot about wine
A sprinkle of education will carry you through a long and enjoyable relationship with wine. Here are six wines that come with a lesson.
Koehler-Ruprecht Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc)
Kabinett Trocken 2021
Azzura Wine Bar
Did you know Pinot Blanc is a white-berried mutation of the Pinot Noir grape? It has gained popularity in places like Northern Italy (where it’s referred to as Pinot Bianco) and Germany (known as Weissburgunder), where it’s considered a top-tier white grape. This wine is made entirely from Pinot Blanc grapes and is vinified to a bone-dry finish, offering delightful ripe and fruity flavors with every sip. $48. Pair with a charcuterie board. azzurracucina.com.
Grounded by John Phelps, Sauvignon Blanc 2023
DW Bistro
Sauvignon Blanc is grown worldwide and can express itself in many ways depending on location. In California’s Central Coast, the Mediterranean climate, influenced by the Pacific Ocean, helps the grapes retain acidity while allowing them to ripen fully, leading to balanced, fresh wines. This all-American wine showcases a slice of Sauvignon Blanc’s California coastal expression. $44/bottle; $12 BTG. Pair with Curry Chicken. dwbistro.com.
Longaví Glup! Naranjo Moscatel, 2022 Wineaux
A skin-contact wine is made from white grapes that ferment with their skins for an extended time, resulting in colors ranging from citrine yellow to deep amber (hence the name “orange wine”). Glup! Naranjo, made from Moscatel de Alejandría grapes in Chile’s Itata Valley, boasts a light topaz hue, indicating minimal oxidation, resulting in a pristine and characterful natural wine. Its engaging floral aroma contrasts with the wine’s dry, fresh and savory palate, offering an irresistible sipping experience. $44. Pair with Roasted Eggplant Dip. wineauxlv.com.
Amari Italian Kitchen & Wine Shop Nascetta, a once highly praised grape from Italy’s Piedmonte region, was nearly forgotten during the 20th century due to its difficult cultivation and unpredictable yield. In the mid1990s, winemaker Valter Fissore brought attention to this indigenous white grape, which now stands among the great reds of Piedmonte, and Braida’s bottling perfectly represents it. $58. Pair with PanRoasted Halibut. amarilv.com.
Fattoria Selvapiana Chianti
Rùfina DOCG 2020
Basilico Ristorante Italiano
Rùfina may be the smallest subzone of Italy’s Chianti region, but it is highly notable. Located northeast of Florence, Chianti Rùfina’s unique location against the Apennine mountains offers cool summer temperatures and consistently significant day-to-night temperature changes, ideal for producing elegant, fresh wines. This bottle of Selvapiana primarily blends Sangiovese with the small contributions of traditional blending grapes. It is an excellent example of the finesse and crispness the Rùfina subzone of Chianti delivers. $51. Pair with Lasagna Emiliana. basilicolv.com.
Movia Wine Tasting, Slovenia DB Wine & Spirits
There’s the moon! The “biodynamic” winemaking method emphasizes the connection between the vineyard and the natural environment, using organic farming techniques and lunar cycles to guide planting and harvesting. This dedication to sustainable practices honors the origins of winemaking and enhances the unique characteristics and quality of Movia, a legendary Slovenian producer since 1820. Explore Movia’s offerings on August 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Complimentary. dbwineandspirits.com.
Braida “La Regina” Langhe Nascetta DOC 2020
Taste
DRINK / CHEERS / CUISINE / FOOD FILES / DINING GUIDE
BY MELINDA SHECKELLS
Scotch 80 Prime at Palms is the top “meat-up” spot for happy hour this summer. Named for the Scotch 80s neighborhood near downtown Las Vegas, the restaurant recently unveiled Social Hour, one of the tastiest deals in town. Every Monday through Thursday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and again from 8:30 to 10 p.m., Scotch 80 offers half off on more than a dozen menu items created by Chef Marty Lopez. From the raw bar, indulge in oysters on the half shell ($12.50), shrimp cocktail ($13.50) and steak tartare ($13), followed by crunchy shrimp toast ($13) from the appetizer selection. Steakhouse favorites such as the 8 oz filet mignon ($32.50) and A5 wagyu burger loaded with smoked cheddar, thick-cut bacon and S80 sauce on milk bread ($25) all steal the show. Pair cocktails ($12) or half-off bottles of wine with every bite and enjoy a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. Free valet and self-parking. palms.com.
DIRTY LITTLE SECRET
Harlo Steakhouse & Bar pays homage to a classic aperitif that piques the olive lover’s palate
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY EUGENE DELA CRUZ
There’s something to say about an icycold martini on a hot summer day. At Harlo Steakhouse & Bar from Restaurateur Jeffrey Fine and Executive Chef/Partner Gina Marinelli, the classic cocktail receives a few extra dirty touches, making it a must-order for those who love a salty bite. Don’t visit the Downtown Summerlin staple without ordering the Harlo Martini ($22).
The Harlo Martini was created by the steakhouse’s opening director of beverage, David Bonatesta, who is now at Durango Resort. However, Harlo Steakhouse abides by the adage, “Don’t mess with a good thing.” As a result, the original recipe hasn’t changed since Harlo debuted in November 2021.
A signature cocktail that honors the venerable and timeless dirty vodka martini, this pleasurable sipper features Extra Virgin Olive Oil-infused Gruven Vodka, Spring 44 Old Tom Gin, olive brine and house-marinated charred olives.
The dual base of potato vodka and botanical gin gives the drink its foundation. The vodka is fat-washed in Ligurian olive oil for a deeper flavor profile. The olive accouterment makes the martini extra dirty along with the vermouth.
The oversized martini, stored and served in a crystal carafe resting on crushed ice, pays tribute to old-school Vegas. The decanter is left on the table, allowing guests to top off their drink.
“We love the idea of leaving our guests with a little extra to pour into their glass. Our hope was that as a guest took the last sip of their martini, they would wish for just a bit more to enjoy, and in this case, we’re happy to oblige,” says Kester Masias, Harlo’s vice president of wine and beverage operations.
Harlo Steakhouse & Bar, 1720 Festival Plaza Dr.; 702.333.0402; harlosteak.com.
CHEF CONVERSATIONS
In the kitchen with Francesco Di Caudo of Basilico
BY JEN SMITH / PHOTO BY LOUIIE VICTA
Chef Francesco Di Caudo began working in restaurants and cooking in his small Italian village in Randazzo, Sicily, when he was 11 years old.
“I never liked asking my parents for money,” he says. “But at the time, I loved Scottie Pippen from the Bulls and wanted his Nike shoes. I started working in a pizza place, cleaning the floor and dishes. From there, I started to like being in contact with customers, even if I was just 11 years old.”
His early career endeavors quickly transformed from necessity to passion. He specialized early in a culinary education, as one can do in Italy, and traveled around during the summers “staging.”
He landed in Las Vegas at age 20. A connection from his chef-mentor in Italy led him to an opportunity at Zeffirino in The Venetian. Throughout his two decades in the valley, he traversed some of the city’s most lauded restaurants, including Ferraro’s and Anima, before opening Basilico in 2022. At the southwest hotspot, he crafts dishes inspired by his Italian roots.
What’s a dish every visitor to Sicily must try? Sardines with pasta, olive oil, garlic cloves, wild fennel and spiced bread crumbs. It depends if you’re a person who wants raisins and pine nuts [on the dish], but in Sicily, we don’t do that.
Is there a dish you will always cook traditionally? If you have good ingredients, they will speak for themselves. Sometimes, I use Japanese ingredients. Once, we had an octopus [where] I was using Japanese broth, Greek technique and the flavors of Sicily. One of the things I teach my cooks is to respect the ingredients, not overdo it.
Does your daughter have a favorite dish? [Solange] is my fiercest critic. When she was a baby, I was [making] stuffed bell peppers [with] zucchini and eggplant. She still remembers that dish. It is comfort food and a way to spend time with my daughter in the kitchen, teaching her how to chop and clean veggies. She asks me for that once in a while.
Basilico, 6111 S. Buffalo Dr., Ste. 100, 702.534.7716. basilicolv.com.
HIGHLY AWARDED
The restaurants and chefs cast in the spotlight of various culinary honors
BY SAMANTHA GEMINI STEVENS
Milpa
DJ Flores, JBFA 2024 semi-finalist Best Chef: Southwest
Flores’ star dish is the heirloom blue corn masala tetelas, an inspired and homey creation with squash filling, two farm-fresh sunny-side-up eggs, roasted cauliflower, shimeji mushrooms, cilantro and salsa matcha. milpa.toast.site/order.
Restaurant awards come in many forms, and Las Vegas bears its share of nominations and accolades earned. The well-known James Beard Foundation Awards (JBFA) has recognized Las Vegas and its chefs and restaurants in approximately 100 ways. There are also awards from dining and traveler guides, both national and international. National Public Radio of Nevada’s Desert Companion Magazine’s Restaurant Awards are highly coveted. New to town, the inaugural Slow Food Awards were recently distributed with “Snail of Approval” and “Snailblazer” distinctions, recognizing food and beverage businesses that demonstrate Slow Food values in six areas: sourcing, environmental impact, cultural connection, community involvement, staff support and business values. In 2008 and 2009, Michelin even ranked restaurants around town, although it has not done so since. The following list shares some of our favorites with high regard on the Westside and beyond.
Esther’s Kitchen
James Trees, JBFA 2020 finalist Best Chef: Southwest
Trees hits it out of the park with his Wagyu Carne Crudo, made with Australian Wagyu beef shoulder, hand chopped and mixed with minced shallots, capers, parsley and chives. It is served on grilled focaccia and topped with pecorino Romano, cured egg yolks, purple basil leaves and pickled Fresno chilis. Trees is also behind Ada’s and Al Solito Posto in Tivoli Village. estherslv.com.
Anima by EDO
Oscar Amador, JBFA 2024 semi-finalist
Outstanding Chef; 2023 semi-finalist
Best Chef: Southwest
The Bikini is an EDO staple and eating just one is impossible. A smashed, fried sandwich of sobrasada and Mahon Cheese, this small, light bite is full of flavor and awakens the palate, preparing your table for the feast that follows. animabyedo.com.
La Strega
Gina Marinelli, JBFA 2022 semi-finalist
Best Chef: Southwest
The Australian Lamb T-Bones with asparagus farrotto and goat cheese is a spring-forward dish using young lamb and seasonal ingredients to highlight the asparagus’s brightness and the goat cheese’s tang against the light game meat. harlosteak.com.
Other Mama
Dan Krohmer, JBFA 2020 finalist Best Chef: Southwest
Krohmer’s inventive, sweet, savory French toast and caviar is served with labneh and a beautiful, creamy dollop. othermama.com.
Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand 3-star Michelin
The legacy of the “Chef of the Century’’ lives on. Known for his infamous and decadent mashed potatoes, Joël Robuchon is in a class all its own when it comes to fine dining on the Strip. mgmresorts.com.
The Black Sheep
Jamie Tran, JBFA 2022 finalist Best Chef: Southwest
Tran’s grilled Spanish octopus is accompanied by braised asparagus, black sesame and crispy rice with a ginger and sambal sauce. blacksheepvegas.com.
Shanghai Taste
Jimmy Li, JBFA 2023 semi-finalist Best Chef: Southwest
Crispy Shanghai chicken, created by Chef Jimmy Li, is a flavor-packed dish with a super-crispy exterior and juicy interior. @shanghai_taste.
Sparrow + Wolf
Brian Howard, JBFA 2024 semi-finalist
Best Chef: Southwest
The steamed clams come drenched in a Thai basil pesto loaded with Southeast Asian aromatics, crunchy garlic and shallots, alongside a thick piece of woodfired sourdough slathered in garlic confit and Thai chilis. It’s light, fresh, bold and perfect to share around the table. sparrowandwolflv.com.
Lotus of Siam
Saipin Chutima, JBFA 2011 winner
Best Chef: Southwest
Thai food lovers praise Chutima’s Kang Ka Noon or spicy jackfruit curry. The dish from Northern Thailand is reminiscent of chicken in texture and flavor. Young jackfruit chunks soaking in complementary spices make for a snack or a full meal. lotusofsiam.com.
Kaiseki Yuzu
Kaoru Azeuchi, JBFA 2023 finalist Best Chef: Southwest
Kaiseki Yuzu offers three culinary experiences: two Kaiseki menus and an omakase sushi bar. The menus change constantly but expect delicacies such as unagi or freshwater eel from Japan; grade A5 Yukimuro beef; fish flown in daily for Japan; and Hokkaido Uni. kaisekiyuzu.com.
Garagiste
Eric Prato, JBFA 2023 finalist
Outstanding Bar
An inspired wine list for all palates reflects seasonal, creative and often small winemakers’ goods. The sommeliers are friendly, knowledgeable and talented; if you can describe what you like, they have just the wine to make a good match. garagistelv.com.
Honey Salt
Elizabeth Blau and Kim Canteenwalla, JBFA 2016 semi-finalist Outstanding
Restaurateur
Honey Salt’s strawberry Dutch pancake is a filling and beautiful brunch staple
any time of the year. It has macerated strawberries, whipped cream, basil, mint and pink peppercorn. Whether enjoying the comfortably elegant and homey dining room or on the front patio, this is the perfect way to start your day. honeysalt.com.
Vetri Cucina
Marc Vetri, JBFA award winner
From his namesake restaurant atop the Palms, the grilled bone-in Strip steak with potato rosti, summer herb salad and jus is a surprising choice in a restaurant known for its pasta but you won’t regret the commitment. vetricucina.com.
Desert Moon Farms
EvaSara Luna and Enrique Gonzalez, 2023 Inaugural Slow Food Awardee
Desert Moon Farms’ product is a true work of Mother Nature’s art. The Coral Tooth Mushroom is a lesser-known cousin of the Lion’s Mane Mushroom. Savory and versatile, it is fantastic as a meat substitute for many dishes, including tacos. Its name comes from its beautiful coral structure. A unique fungi, it turns slightly red when cooked. desertmoonfarms.com.
Monzu
Italian Kitchen & Oven
Gio Mauro, 2023 Inaugural Slow Food Awardee
While Monzu is known for its pizza, the menu includes pie, pasta and secondi. The risotto al prosecco, fragole e piselli will make you wonder why you haven’t been eating strawberry, pea risotto with parmigiano reggiano shavings and freezedried balsamic all along. monzulv.com.
Partage
Yuri Szarzewski, NPR Restaurant of the Year 2018
In a menu of standout dishes, the crab apple King crab served with fresh citrus, apple and celery jelly, and pillow squid ink crackers stuffed with a bottarga chantilly is an intricate dish full of surprises. partage.vegas.
Taste DINING GUIDE
HONEY SALT
Proof that you can find stellar dining off the Strip lies in Honey Salt’s creative menus of upscale American fare, packed with options you won’t find in most neighborhood restaurants. They include cast iron branzino with shaved fennel, bacon-wrapped farmhouse meatloaf with tomato jam and the mighty kale salad. The brunch menu is also loaded with hits. Make sure to get a brookie (combination of brownie and cookie) for dessert. 1031 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.445.6100; honeysalt.com. $$
Asian
LOTUS OF SIAM
Lotus of Siam, which earned praise for its locations in the Strip corridor over the past few decades, brings love to the ‘burbs with this stunning offshoot at Red Rock Resort. Can’t-miss dishes include Poo Pad Pong Karee, which is curry stir-fried Alaskan king crab legs with eggs and mixed vegetables and the probably world-famous garlic prawns, deep fried in the shell, with a crispy texture reminiscent of potato chips. 11011 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.907.8888; lotusredrock.com. $$
NENE CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE BISTRO
The Town Dining Guide is curated by Neon Feast, a Las Vegasbased online dining guide compiled by veteran Las Vegas food writer Al Mancini with input from dozens of local F&B professionals, critics and influencers. The Guide offers expert restaurant recommendations in over 100 categories and is available as an app for Apple and Android devices. It is also available online at neonfeast.com.
Fine Japanese food in casually elegant surroundings comes to the suburbs in this palace of sushi, sashimi, robata dishes, bento bowls, soups, salads, entrees and vegan selections. Bluefin tuna, Scottish salmon, branzino and San Diego uni (sea urchin) are among the sushi items offered. The chef ventures beyond traditional Asian rice dishes with assorted
risottos. Specials abound on summer and lunch menus and don’t miss happy hour. 4165 S. Grand Canyon Dr.; 702.463.2700; nenesushilv.com. $$
BBQ
ROLLIN SMOKE BBQ
With two decades of experience in barbecue and Southern-style meals, Rollin Smoke Barbeque has expanded to five locations (including T-Mobile Arena and Allegiant Stadium). St. Louis pork spare ribs, pork baby backs, beef ribs, smoked chicken and smoked chicken wings come with a choice of sauces from the Arkansas region, including sweet, spicy, lemon pepper, Cajun or very hot. Enjoy a Po-Boy or The Big Hawg sandwich with 10 ounces of pulled pork. 4115 S. Grand Canyon Dr.; 702.816.3634; rollinsmokebarbeque.com. $
Brunch
TOASTED GASTROBRUNCH
Are you looking for a bottomless mimosa brunch on a weekday? Chef Sami Ladeki has you covered. The
BY PHOTO KATHY TRAN
owner of Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza chain shocked many when he converted the West Flamingo Road location into a Toasted Gastrobrunch. But the menu of morning classics in both traditional and innovative forms quickly won over locals. The booze program has something for everyone: signature cocktails, prosecco, wine, three Bloody Marys, eight coffees, three bellinis and five mimosas. And yes, bottomless options are available. 9516 W. Flamingo Rd.; 702.638.9500; toastedgastrobrunch.com. $$
Café/Deli
BRONZE CAFE
Fast-casual meets healthy at Bronze Café, where the salads, sandwiches and sweets have secured a loyal following among locals throughout the valley. Focusing on “fit-friendly” eats, the menu features a sizable vegan section. But carnivores are not ignored, with options like the Bacon Chicken Chop salad and the What What sandwich, made with turkey, pepperoni, Arcadia greens, basil aioli, oregano vinaigrette, tomato and red onion. There’s an entire pastry case of all-vegan sweets—many of which are also gluten-free. 2380 N. Buffalo Dr.; 702.852.2830. $
Eclectic
ADA’S FOOD + WINE
The most experimental restaurant by superstar chef/restaurateur James Trees (Esther’s Kitchen, Al Solito Posto), Ada’s, sometimes feels more like a workshop than a fixed concept. For now, Chef Jackson Stamper seems to be having fun mixing his takes on traditional Spanish tapas with unexpected comfort foods. Veteran sommelier Kat Thomas (Bellagio, Aria, The Mina Group, Sirio Maccioni) augments the choices with a list of lesser-known, reasonably-priced wines. Tivoli Village, 401 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.462.2795; adaslv.com. $$
Italian
AL SOLITO POSTO
Chef James Trees’ Tivoli Village Italian spot differs from his Arts District restaurant, Esther’s Kitchen, in one main way: its focus. Where Esther’s has a West Coast energy, Al Solito Posto (“the usual place” in Italian) is a tribute to the East Coast Italian cuisine that dominated Las Vegas during the Rat Pack’s heyday. Here, Trees and his team prove that the classic red sauce dishes many of us grew up with (think chicken parm) deserve more respect than they receive at your local pizza place. Tivoli Village, 430 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.463.6781; alsolito.com. $$
AMARI
Amari is much more than the resident Italian restaurant at UnCommons in the southwest valley. The focaccia bread and pizzas are made with the same dough, using a 25-year-old ancient grain starter that produces complexity in taste and texture. The menu features updated Italian classics, including a shrimp scampi reimagined as a pasta dish and a deconstructed chicken cacciatore. It all pairs well with wine, cocktails or the restaurant’s exceptional amaro selection. UnCommons, 6825 Tom Rodriguez St., Las Vegas. amarilv.com. $$
ANIMA BY EDO
Anima is the second restaurant by the team behind the award-winning Spanish restaurant EDO, which includes repeat James Beard Award nominee Chef Oscar Amador. While a few dishes crossover between restaurants, Anima has a distinct menu with stronger Italian and Mediterranean influences. Prices are a solid value for food of this caliber. Like EDO, Anima offers tasting menus. The kitchen team is gracious about working around any allergies or preferences. The Gramercy, 9205 W. Russell Road; 702.202.4291; animabyedo.com. $$$
BASILICO
Located within the southwest’s Evora community, Basilico courts locals who appreciate the nuances of a stylish, modern dining room, inviting outdoor patio and unique vision of modern Italian cuisine. Sicilian-born Chef Francesco Di Caudo, who won Chef of the Year at Ferraro’s and a James Beard Award nomination at Anima, transcends expectations with avantgarde technique, unexpected ingredients and original presentations. But he keeps it all grounded with respect for the basics, particularly pizzas and pasta. Standouts include a duck mousse “cigar” served in an oversized ashtray, accompanied by sesame-truffle “ash.” 6111 S. Buffalo Dr.; 702.534.7716; basilicolv.com. $$
LA STREGA
Chef Gina Marinelli gained her local fame on the Strip, running celebrity chef Scott Conant’s D.O.C.G. in The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. After leaving that position, she traveled to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. It’s those travels that inspire this restaurant. There’s no chicken parm on this menu. Instead, you’ll find lots of seafood, light pasta, delicious pizzas, steaks, chops and game meats. Fun Fact: The restaurant’s name is Italian for “The Witch.” 3555 S. Town Center Dr.; 702.722.2099; lastregalv.com. $$
D.W. BISTRO
A Las Vegas original, DW Bistro takes the bold step of creating its culinary niche by combining the flavors of Jamaican cuisine and New Mexican regional food in a Parisian-style restaurant. Owner Bryce Krausman and founding Chef Dalton Wilson took this bold concept and named it DW, an acronym for “Dining With” that represents the restaurant and the brand. More than a decade later, the menu continues to evolve. DW’s weekend brunch is among the most popular off the Strip. The Gramercy, 9275 W. Russell Rd.; 702.527.5200; dwbistro.com. $$
Taste DINING GUIDE
MONZU ITALIAN OVEN
Chef/owner Giovanni Mauro operates Monzu in the space that once housed his mother’s landmark restaurant, Nora’s Italian Cuisine. The food here, however, is a bit more adventurous, having been inspired by the chef’s travels to Italy. Rectangular Roman “pizza alla palla” is offered alongside unique takes on Sicilian classics: heirloom pumpkin with chicken gizzards, lemon leaf stuffed with meat croquettes, milk-poached whipped salt cod with caviar. Enjoy these delectable bites with live music on weekends. 6020 W. Flamingo Rd.; 702.749.5959; monzulv.com. $$
OSTERIA FIORELLA
Chef Marc Vetri is a Philadelphia culinary legend who operates a brilliant fine-dining restaurant atop the Palms. Osteria Fiorella is more approachable, or as he puts it, “a little bit more red sauce-y.” You’ll find lasagna al forno, rigatoni with sausage ragu and bucatini pomodoro, amazing pizzas, and more exotic pasta like Swiss chard tortelli in a sage brown butter sauce. His devotion to quality ingredients and pristine execution, however, is consistent among all his restaurants. Red Rock Resort, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.797.7777. redrockresort.com. $$
Mediterranean PAYMON’S FRESH KITCHEN AND LOUNGE
Paymon Raouf opened the first incarnation of Paymon’s in the early 1980s as a small deli near UNLV with a table, two chairs and to-go food for students. Today, the Westside location is a favorite for Greek, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, with a few dishes from Italy and Iran and plentiful vegan and vegetarian choices. In the evening, the lounge area transforms into a nightlife spot with hookah and a full bar. 8380 W. Sahara Ave.; 702.804.0293; paymons. com. $
Mexican
BBQ MEXICANA
A casual sister concept to celebrity chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken’s Mandalay Bay institution, Border Grill, BBQ Mexicana infuses U.S. barbecue with Mexican spice in a casual, quick-service setting. After years of serving local sports fans at T-Mobile Arena, Allegiant Stadium and the Las Vegas Ballpark (and conventioneers at Mandalay Bay), it now offers burritos, bowls, tacos and salads on Sunset Road. The smoked brisket burrito (aka the Burnt Ends Burrito) is a Las Vegas original
created on a food truck that’s become an urban legend among local foodies. 8480 W. Sunset Rd. Ste. 200; 702.552.0111; bbqmexicana. com. $
Pizza
DOM DEMARCO’S PIZZERIA & WINE BAR
Dom DeMarco’s is a descendant of the famous Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn, and its New York pedigree shows in its square Sicilian and round Brooklyn-style pies in the Queensridge/Peccole Ranch neighborhood. Pizza lovers can whet their appetites with eggplant pizzettes or the ever-popular garlic knots, while those who just aren’t in the mood for pizza can choose from several pasta dishes. The covered (and heated) outdoor patio offers a great al fresco experience year-round. 9785 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.570.7000; domdemarcos. com. $
OLD SCHOOL PIZZERIA
Chef Giovanni Mauro is kickin’ it old school here with classic round pizzas. This is the same chef who wowed us with square Roman pizza at his upscale restaurant, Monzu. In this more casual pizzeria, he uses that same dough, crafted with a 300-yearold Neapolitan sourdough starter and fermented for five days. He also offers ultra-premium toppings and some very upscale sides. Not up for a whole pie? Get a “monster-sized” slice with a choice of sides for $8.99. 1930 Rock Springs Dr.; 702,847.5774; pizzaoldschool.com. $
Seafood
THE LEGENDS OYSTER BAR
This small aquatic-themed restaurant in a strip mall across from Desert Breeze Park offers fresh seafood in a quiet neighborhood setting. Thaiborn chef/owner Jack Jarukasem formerly ran culinary operations at the Rio (which once had the best seafood buffet in town) and his experience shows. The raw bar menu has a large rotating selection of oysters and other delicacies. Cooked dishes include pan roasts, steamers, boils and some excellent clam chowder. 3220 S. Durango Dr.; 702.476.8887; thelegendsoysterbar.com. $$
OTHER MAMA
Chef/owner Dan Krohmer, a veteran of Morimoto in Philadelphia, went on to study sushi in Japan before spending some time on the road cooking for rock and pop superstars. So, he knows his stuff when it comes to nigiri and sashimi. What’s more surprising is how amazing his other creations (seafood and otherwise) can
SUMMER IN ITALY (AT FERRARO’S)
Lots of Italian restaurants talk the talk on “authentic” cuisine. The Ferraro family walks the walk—making regular trips to Italy to explore its culinary heritage, keep up on current trends and connect with top purveyors. Their new four-course, locals-only Summer In Italy tasting menu, available through September 8 with a Nevada ID at Ferraro’s Ristorante, reflects the best of what they’ve learned. For just $69, guests can choose from five antipasti, five kinds of pasta, five “secondi” (main courses) and four desserts. The restaurant’s famed osso bucco can be included for an additional $12. And your Nevada ID also gets you 50 percent off on select wines. Ferraro’s Ristorante; 4480 Paradise Road; 702.364.5300; ferraroslasvegas.com; $$$
be. Hush puppies with caviar, oysters Rockefeller with pork belly, and spicy tuna tartare with waffle fries are all jaw-dropping. 3655 S. Durango Dr.; 702.463.8382. othermama.com. $$$
Steak
ECHO & RIG
Chef Sam Marvin’s Tivoli Village spot offers a full-fledged butcher/restaurant combination. The butcher shop (with a glass meat locker on full display) shares the first-level space with the restaurant’s bar and lounge. At the steakhouse upstairs, the menu offers an extensive list of small plates and plenty of steaks—including tritip, hanger, NY, ribeye cap, wagyu filet tenderloin, skirt and Spencer. Tivoli Village, 440 S. Rampart Blvd.; 702.489.3525; echoandrig.com. $$$
HARLO STEAKHOUSE & BAR
Harlo is what you get when you take an indulgent, modern steakhouse from the Strip and transplant it to Downtown Summerlin. Chef Gina Marinelli (the creative force behind local Italian favorite La Strega) offers fantastic cuts of beef from around the country grilled over an open flame alongside pasta, side dishes and seafood. The caviar presentation is a sight, as the precious eggs are carefully weighed on a triple-beam scale. Downtown Summerlin, 1720 Festival Plaza Dr.; 702.333.0402; harlosteak.com. $$$$
SCOTCH 80 PRIME
The crown jewel of the Palms restaurant portfolio, Scotch 80 Prime is
one of the most elegant, sophisticated and delicious steakhouses in Las Vegas—located in an off-Strip casino with free parking and some incredible “Social Hour” deals. Chef Marty Lopez challenges expectations with highend products, classic techniques and a modern point of view. Beef from top producers in Nebraska, Kansas, Australia and Japan is offered alongside Mary’s free-range chicken, Duroc pork and Muscovy Duck. And guests get 50 percent off 18 of their most popular items, Mondays through Thursdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 to 10 p.m. 4321 W. Flamingo Road; 866.942.7780; palms.com; $$$
T-BONES CHOPHOUSE
This modern American chophouse provides spectacular views, an expansive menu, handcrafted cocktails, an extensive wine list and stunning indoor and outdoor dining. T-Bones Chophouse features USDA Prime dry and wet-aged beef cuts, grass-fed bison and premium Japanese wagyu. Their seafood options include Alaskan king crab, Dover sole, branzino, crab cakes and Bigeye tuna. Round it out with sides such as spicy cream corn, fresh-cut French Fries or mouthwatering mac and cheese. Be sure to check out the happy hour menu. Red Rock Resort, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd.; 702.797.7777; redrockresort.com. $$$
For more on these restaurants and additional picks by category or neighborhood, download the Neon Feast app or visit neonfeast.com.
BY AL MANCINI
VEGAS PIZZAMAKERS WIN BIG IN NYC
When the Italian organization Top 50 Pizza announced the Top 50 U.S. pizzerias last month during an event in New York City, two Las Vegas restaurants made the list: Pizza Rock (pizzarocklasvegas.com) by Tony Gemignani at #28 and Michael Vakneen’s 00 Pie and Pub (doublezeropie.com) at #45.
Beyond those hometown wins, Vakneen and a pair of Las Vegas legends were honored for the American artisanal pizzas they’re making together in Orange County, California. Truly Pizza (trulypizza.com), a collaboration between Vakneen and Metro Pizza partners John Arena and Chris Decker, debuted at #42 on the Top 50 less than a year after opening its doors. The placements make Las Vegas one of only six American cities with multiple pizzerias in the Top 50. Gemignani and Vakneen (who also operates Pop Up Pizza in The Plaza, plazahotelcasino.com) are now the only American pizzaiolo ever to have restaurants in multiple states on the list simultaneously.
This is familiar territory for 13-time World Champion Gemignani, arguably the greatest competitive pizza maker ever. Both Pizza Rock and his San Francisco restaurant, Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, were on the list last year. Gemignani said, “It’s an honor that for the last two years, Pizza Rock has been in the Top 50 pizzerias in the U.S.” before congratulating Vakneen on representing Las Vegas.
And Arena, one of the most tireless and respected promoters of the Las Vegas pizza community, reveled in the success of his proteges more than his own. “I got to be with Chris Decker,” he said of the night. “For me, there’s nothing better than that. He deserves that recognition. Michael deserves that recognition.” Anyone who knows anything about pizza would insist that Arena deserves this recognition, too.
DRAFTKINGS X DELILAH SUMMER LEAGUE PARTY
The 2024 NBA Summer League tipped off in style, celebrating the NBA’s rising stars. DraftKings and The h.wood Group’s Delilah at Wynn Las Vegas hosted an exclusive event fusing the worlds of sports and entertainment with surprise performances from Akon, Ja Rule, Fat Joe and DJ Cassidy.
BY VIVIEN KILLILEA
BRAMÀRE DEBUT
The new Italian fine-dining restaurant Bramàre opened at The Collective (3900 Paradise Rd.). Bramàre marks the latest venture for Batch Hospitality from Constantin Alexander and Evan Glusman, who boast 50 years of expertise with Las Vegas staples, including Piero’s Italian Cuisine, Hakkasan Group and Table 34.
BY EUGENE DELA
CRUZ
ZAPPED
Sev at Tivoli Village casts laser aesthetics in a new light
BY JEN SMITH
Las Vegans love their beauty regimens.
Nails, lashes, hair, waxing, Botox, fillers—you name it, we line up for it in this aesthetically-minded city. A new med spa location is offering a much-needed update to the regimen by replacing waxing with laser hair removal.
Celebrity-backed med spa brand Sev (favored by Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, and Chrissy Teigen) recently opened its 37th location in Tivoli Village to answer local beauty demand, launching with laser hair removal.
Founded by Sevana Petrosian in 2010, Sev started as a small venture in the back of a hair salon in Glendale, California. With a vision to offer an upscale experience and luxury treatments at an affordable price, Sev has quickly become a go-to hotspot for celebrities from Beverly Hills and West
Hollywood seeking laser aesthetics.
“When launching Sev, all med spas at the time were owned by men, so I was inspired to create a space tailored for women—one that felt more like a cozy, welcoming home than a medical facility,” Petrosian says.
An ethos of comfort, elevated ambiance, and inclusivity ensures a memorable and empowering experience for every client, even when undergoing procedures that could make them feel sensitive and vulnerable.
“It is crucial for me to provide a supportive environment,” Petrosian says. “My aim is not just to offer treatments but to be an ally in each client’s journey, fostering comfort and confidence. This commitment to inclusivity and support is a core value of our brand, and we plan to further this mission through upcoming campaigns.”
Sev plans to roll out additional services later this year at its Las Vegas location, such as Botox, body contouring, dermal fillers and other skin-tightening procedures. Signature treatments include Evolve, a noninvasive body-contouring procedure that targets both muscles and skin; various Juvéderm treatments; FDA-approved SkinPen micro-needling; and recognizable brand-name injectables that perform a variety of functions.
This expansion is part of Sev’s ambitious plan to enhance its national presence, aiming to double in size with 50 locations by the end of the year.
Enjoy Sev’s services Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Tivoli Village. New customers receive 50 percent off the first laser hair removal appointment. sevlaser.com.
